By: Heidi MacDonald,
on 6/29/2016
By Nicholas Eskey As the world’s largest comic convention, one that celebrates all forms of popular culture in film, television, video games and of course print, San Diego Comic-Con is also well known also for its grand physical scale. You’d be hard pressed to find a corner of downtown that isn’t affected by it. This […]
By: Heidi MacDonald,
on 6/9/2016
While there are thousands of comic-cons around the world, there is still only one Comic-Con, and that’s the one in San Diego. Comic-Con International, the non-profit organization that runs the big show has been upping its profile a bit in the last year or so, with their Comic-Con HQ SVOD channel, art exhibits at the […]
By: JOANNA MARPLE,
on 4/15/2016
I had another book scheduled for today, but as I am staying with one of my writing buddies and she introduced me to a delightful biography of a tree-loving woman here in San Diego, I couldn’t pass up the chance … Continue reading
Add a Comment
By: Heidi MacDonald,
on 4/10/2016
By Nicholas Eskey Taking his regular seat in front of the all too familiar line consisting of convention goers, Comic-Con International’s President John Rogers readies himself for the inevitable. The “Talk Back Panel” always signifies the end of a convention, giving the chance for attendees and vendors alike to voice their opinions on their experiences; […]
By: Heidi MacDonald,
on 12/11/2015
There is apparently a grassroots petition campaign underway in San Diego, where concerned citizens hope to get a ballot initiative that will keep Comic-Con in San Diego. In front of many stores, voters are being asked to sign petitions in support of an initiative that “could save Comic-Con” or “help build a downtown stadium.” […]
By: Heidi MacDonald,
on 7/17/2015
DC Comics Bombshells writer Marguerite Bennett
By Nick Eskey
DC Collectible’s popular Bombshells figures have recently been green lighted for its own comic, written by Margurite Bennett with art by Margurite Sauvage and set in an alternate reality of WWII where Super Heroes exist. Bennett talks about her experience with the book at this year’s San Diego Comic-Con 2015.
How did you get into comics?
Batman the Animated series actually, and I was on a panel today sitting next to “Paul Dini” and my heart was going like crazy the entire time. I came off as a huge flake I’m sure… But Batman the Animated series, I was five years old and saw it in this after school program. And it’s actually sort of funny. With that iconic opening sequence, I wildly misinterpreted what Batman was about. From the gangsters, and the zeppelins, and this wonder rich noir feel, I um… thought Batman was a bad guy. You saw these villains and these gangsters, and what really caught my attention was how dark it is. So often in children’s television, especially things that are presented to girls, are these hyper-saturated, very, very bright, abundantly pink things. So Batman stuck out because how different it was.
So in that opening sequence you see these “bad things, bad things, bad things,” and then you see Batman who is clearly king of the bad things in Gotham. And I assumed he was a bad guy. When I watched the episode, he was fighting these people. So I thought he was this bad guy who felt guilty of being a bad guy and then decided to then turn [them] all in and clean up the city that he was responsible for making this evil and dark. I operated off of that for like a year before I was six. I didn’t know what the murder of the Wayne’s had to do with this… So I really misinterpreted this. But because of this, and creating my own wrong canons from the very beginning, it really started it as something creative. Something I could enjoy watching, but also putting my own mark on even from a very young age.
Newest Bombshell addition: Cheetah
How did you get involved with the “Bombshells” project?
Oh gosh. Our wonderful editor, “Jim Chadwick,” approached me last September (that’s how long I had to keep secrets about this). He knew I was a huge fan of the series. I’m very vocal on Twitter about how much I loved it and I collected all manner of things form it, and because of the attention that those August variant covers got, DC was like “There seems to be a lot of enthusiasm for this. What about… we’ve essentially got this whole world waiting to have these stories told, maybe there’s something to this?” And there was that Katniss like, Hunger Games moment where I said “I volunteer!” And as soon as he offered, I was all over it. We’ve hit the ground running, and going ever since.
They’re introducing this as a digital download comic right?
Yes. The digital version, which is in these ten page increments, will be every Saturday of the month. These ten page chapters will feature a different heroine for our first arc. And then for our second arc, their paths start to cross. That starts July 27th I believe. The first print comic is going to be August 12th on Wednesday.
What kind of research did you have to do for a story taken place in WWII?
It’s almost always been a preoccupation of mine even at a young age, and I come from a military family. So it was something that you grew up knowing and learning a lot about. And it’s not precisely World War II. We’re doing an alternate history. But it was something where I was able to incorporate these story telling elements.
Newest Bombshell addition: Killer Frost
Scaling back for a minute, when people try and look at an event that massive, a lot of the times we get caught up in things that are almost too big to tell a story about. Or like when you visit a new country or culture, you’ll go to like the “Great Wall,” or you’ll go to the “Eiffel Tower.” But the thing that you remember coming away from it aren’t these giant vistas. They’re small interactions. They’re small stories. Like the “Eiffel Tower’s” one thing, but the thing that I took away from Paris was that “Spongebob Squarepants” is called “Bob L’eponge.” That sticks with you for some reason, and so it was the smaller stories, the more intimate human stories, that always stayed with me with learning about war as a child. Something that’s so far removed from my generation and my birth, they were always the stories that were too big to hold here in my head. But it was the small stories that were the ones that could stay.
Small stories are what influence the world of Bombshells more than outside events. We’re not trying to tell the battle of the bulge, but we’re trying to tell the stories of human courage and human compassion.
Which one of the Bombshells is your favorite to write for?
Batwoman. Batwoman is my favorite DC hero, period. I think that every DC hero in particular is so iconic. Each one can be boiled down to a single virtue or element. Batman is about justice, or obsession depending on your read. Or Batgirl is about recovery. And I feel like Batwoman is about service.
Where it’s the element of military service, or giving yourself to a larger cause. I think she’s inherently a very selfish person, so it’s something that she struggles with. She had a tendency to really hurt the people that she loves, but she still wants to do this, she still wants to be this thing that can provide for other people, and care for other people. It was so interesting because she comes from a place where she’s flawed. She fails so often, in trying to do this, and trying to be this. And it felt like this really perfect moment of crisis that’s going to define the coming century. Her failings and her strengths are going to be the heart of that story.
What was the most challenging part of writing for Bombshells?
You know, we have so many wonderful heroines. So I do worry about being able to give each of them their do. There are so many people I want to incorporate. The first heroines you’re going to see are the ones that already have their own statues, but there are a lot of ones that I want to hurry and get to. But we do need to do that first and establish them first. Coming from the DC Collectibles needed to be our priority. And so I’m hoping the public will bear with me, because they’ll be times when you’ll see character, and you might not see or hear from them again for a few months… I’m just impatient, and I want all my toys at once, and I want to share them with everyone all at once.
Look out for DC Comics Bombshells releasing on digital starting July 27th, and the physical book releasing August 12th.
By: Heidi MacDonald,
on 7/17/2015
Mariko Tamaki
By Nick Eskey
Mariko Tamaki is a Canadian born artist of mixed Japanese and Jewish descent. In school she studied literature and writing, later on publishing the book “Cover Me,” as well as graphic novels “Skim” and “Emiko Superstar.” Her recent work is another graphic novel entitled “This One Summer.” Jillian Tamaki, Mariko’s cousin, did the illustrations for both this novel and for “Skim.”
“This One Summer” gives a glimpse into the life of two young girls as they spend one summer at a cottage by the beach. We get to see them learn and experience new things, as well as see the contrast between lives of adults and kids. During this year’s San Diego Comic-Con, I got to sit down and talk about this book with writer Mariko Tamaki. Unfortunately, Jillian could not attend.
The First Second booth at San Diego Comic-Con 2015
How long have you been doing comics?
The first comic I did was with Jillian. It was a mini-comic called “Skim.” I believe it was the early summer of 2008 I did the first mini-comic for a literary magazine in Canada called “Kiss Machine.” So… this woman, Emily Pulari, commissioned these mini-comics from women who never really had a lot of experience with comics. So we did a mini-comic through that. It’s kind of like a “test case.” Kind of like a low pressure to try something out. So we did the mini-comic of “Skim,” and that got purchased by “Groundwood Books.” And that was our first graphic novel together. That was my first work in comics.
Did you ever think you’d get into comics?
I had no aspirations to work in comics. But I always really liked working on collaborations. I’ve actually done a lot of theatre, and I’ve done a lot of performance art, which for me was like a more accessible version of theatre. So I’ve done a lot of actors work, and a lot of work in sort of feminist collectives and stuff. I was really into the idea of working with another artist than I was in comics per say. But I would say now that I’ve done comics, I think that they’re just an incredible medium for telling stories. The way that stories get told in my experience in comics is that it opens opportunities to tell [them] in so many different angles.
What were some of your ideas for writing this story?
I grew up in Northern Ontario, Canada. And every summer, you went to the cottage. So it was this like solid, integral part of my childhood… When it comes to comics, especially with this one, I thought of the atmosphere. I felt the background would be a good setting for a story. And I’m also kind of obsessed with transitional moments. So for me, the idea of being these young girls, and having this chunk of their lives, and analyzing that part, and all the sort of changes that would happen, even if [those changes] were all going to be during this one summer of their lives… it was something I wanted to show.
Would you say this mirrors any of your life?
Well I use to go to the cottage, but I didn’t have any of those challenges. I used some things as a beginning point, and created something fictional from that. Obviously I was a young girl at the cottage, and I had the fat young friend there too, but the characters are not really that connected to my life. The experiences that they have are not my experiences, aside from the fact that I also did go to Saint Joseph in Huron, which is the park that they go to in the book. Actually, Jillian and I as part of our research (that’s what we call it, “research”), went to Saint Joseph in Huron, went to the cottage, and spent a week in Nova Scotia which is I think one of the best places to write a book.
I think the dialogue is very down to Earth, and very easy to relate to. Is there anything that was hard for you to talk about?
During the initial draft, it was sort of a struggle to write the character of the mother because it’s hard to write somebody who’s not talking about what’s bothering them. And I think that’s so much of what Jillian brought to that character in terms of the details. Even the t-shirts that the mom wears have all these details that kind of build up that character. And we sort of went back and re-edited [her] a lot, because who wants to read about this upset mom who’s just having a bad day? I think that’s like the archetype of the “pissed-off-mom” from like ancient times on. And we wanted to see the layers of that experience. That was a really challenging thing to write, and it ended up being one of the more intriguing stuff. For whatever reason, the writing for Wendy and Rose was for me kind of easy. Their banter was just fun and easy, and it’s hard to write for someone that’s just not pleasant… it’s hard to lovingly write that.
The kids seemed to be able to live in the moment, where the older characters were concerned with other things. How was it to show that dynamic of the two?
My archetype for stuff like that has always been the “Roseanne” show. It’s about the kids, and it’s about the adults. And the problems of the kids are not entirely linked to the adults, but their completely meshed. It’s like you have these people in this microcosm and their like push-pull on each other, where they’re struggling with the same struggles. So for me, I think it’s that kind of step forward from “Skim” to this book. That challenge of really creating a story that’s not just about the kids in this little bubble; to see these layered connections between the kids in the town, these kids in their respective homes, and all other different relationships. To me some of the most interesting scenes are the ones were something of the adults reverberate to the kids; their parents get into a fight, and that trickles down from the parents and then to the kid. And I think that sort of chain reaction is a super interesting one… It’s great to see someone on an adventure, fighting for their family or what have you, but at the same time most of our reality as teenagers is connected to our parents.
It really is interesting seeing these kids’ “bubbles” being formed and shaped by their parents.
It’s like a book about trying to be an adult, just as much for the adults as it is for the kids. These parents are trying to be adults, they’re trying to do the right thing. These teenagers are trying to be adults. And it’s all these varying groups of people that have this notion of what it means to be a grownup, and that depressing challenge of it being out of your reach.
Have you found yourself open to other avenues because of your exposure to graphic novels?
I ended up doing this short film called “Happy Sixteenth Birthday Kevin,” which is a movie about a sixteen year old Goth boy, but the cast is like me and my 30 year old friends. So I did that, because comics showed me how much I love dialogue, and I try to incorporate that as much as I can in the work that I’m doing.
“This One Summer” is available now. You can buy it online, or at your local book store.
By: Heidi MacDonald,
on 7/14/2015
Jim Lee
By Nick Eskey
One of the happy-highlights of San Diego Comic-Con is when DC Comics co-publisher, writer, and artist Jim Lee just sits down and draws. Well he doesn’t just draw. The talented artist also has the chops to be a regular comedian. Every year on Sunday, his “Drawing with Jim Lee” is a highlight of the convention.
The panel this year had a slight hiccup however. From what we were told, he had it on his schedule that it would start at 3pm to 4pm, not 1:30pm to 2:30pm. We wouldn’t have to wait till 3pm, but he wasn’t going to be there till 2:15pm. A number of people left, but a majority stayed the extra forty-five minutes.
When Mr. Lee did show, a wave of applause went through the room. He took to his chair, and looking out at the crowd said, “Thanks for staying. It’s a real testament to your guys’ love of a free sketch.” Everyone erupted with laughter.
He continued to thank the crowd as he pulled pencils, “Pigma” pens, inks, and brushes out onto the table. “Now, you see this? It’s a Pigma marker. It gives you a fine tip and you can go thicker. You can use it for defining, or shadowing… They always send me a bunch of these, so I use them. I’m still waiting on this year’s crate.” More laughter. “You’ll have to excuse me, it’s Sunday at Comic-Con, so I’m not all here. But really guys, I do enjoy this panel a lot. Compared to the other days, this one is just very intimate, and a fun atmosphere. So thank you.”
He proceeded to trace the lines on a “Wonder Woman” sketch that he had started earlier. “I thought I would get some drawings done beforehand so I had more to pass out to you all. So I… I got ONE. Yay!”
As he put the finishing touches on, he addressed the convention staff. “Is there anyone in here that works for Comic-Con? Do you know the difference between ‘Law’ and ‘Justice?’ Well, Law is what should be done. Justice is what needs to be done. So I know there’s some sort of rule forbidding panelists from handing out food to attendees in the room. But I got all these ‘Twix’ bars I want to give out.” Low and behold, Twix bars were passed out to everyone in the room. “We did an ad campaign back in June that took up a whole page… So yeah. That’s Law and Justice.”
While he finished his Wonder Woman, he had the crowd ask him questions. One person asked if he still did personal drawings from his Marvel days. “I’ll occasionally draw Marvel things for friends who like Marvel… It’s fun to draw these characters every now and then.” He was then asked if he would draw one. “Fine, I’ll draw Wolverine… but he’s got to wear the Batman suit.”
Jim gave out the first sketch, and then began on the second. He began with a circle, and built upon it. “Trace basic shapes. They are like the blue print.” With the skeleton of the drawing done, he started the detailing. “Wolverine is like Batman. But smaller nose, bad breath, and… 2.8 billion dollars.” As he began the lining, he added “Batman is a lot like Wolverine, but less feral in nature… DC has less angry characters.”
It’s obvious how much Jim Lee enjoys his art, and sharing it with others. The amount of care he puts into his work looks effortless. It comes from years of practice. As he’s working on Wolverine’s nose, he smiled and said, “Add the nose and the teeth that make him look like he’s going to drop a deuce.” The room erupts again in laughter. “No, see? He’s kind of hunched over. He’s about to sit on the toilet.”
“Add the nose and the teeth that make him look like he’s going to drop a deuce.”
Finished, he gave Wolverine away, and took the request of doing “Harley Quinn.” As he drew, an attendee asked, “With nine kids, what do you do to relax?” Jim Lee looked at him, and laughed a little. “I make nine kids… No really. What do I do to relax? I draw. When I draw, time goes by. I fall into my pocket dimension, which is full of shirtless, muscular men.”
As he finished the drawing and was going to give it out, another person asked, “Who’s your least favorite character to draw?” Without hesitation, he answered, “Spiderman. I do believe he’s one of the best creations of Jim Lee, but I don’t like drawing Spiderman. He has all that webbing…The webbing, it creates the form of the costume. And when it moves around and curves, it’s just hard to plot.”
For his last drawing, he asked who he should draw next. A flurry of responses came through. But the one he latched on to was “Aquaman.” “Look, this girl is putting her hands together and pleading! That’s the international sign of ‘I have to draw this.’”
While he drew the last sketch, the question of “What’s your favorite part of the costume to draw” came up. And this was probably my favorite response of the night. Jim Lee answered, “Oh you’re not going to trick me with that.”
The Jim Lee Sunday panel is probably the favorite of many. The fun and playful atmosphere is one that can be greatly appreciated on a Comic-Con Sunday. Though it doesn’t really explain much of the techniques in his drawing, it does allow everyone to see one of comic’s greats make wonderful art. Let’s all hope it continues for a years to come.
By: Heidi MacDonald,
on 7/13/2015
John Rogers – Comic-Con President
By Nick Eskey
San Diego Comic-Con has come and gone. As in every year, to officially close convention, we are gathered before John Rogers, Comic-Con International President, for the ever so important “Talk Back” panel. It is here that attendees can voice their concerns, suggestions, or applause this year’s convention, so that John can hear them personally.
Comic-Con’s president introduced himself, and thanked staff, security, volunteers, exhibitors, and others before opening up the microphone to the waiting crowd. And as usual, the crowd extended nearly to the back of the room.
Some of the concerns brought up dealt with the constant concern for lines. Lines for merchandising and booths have become a recent issue. One attendee brought up the issues he was having with the “Funko” booth. “The line was so disorganized, and constantly closed throughout the day. There was even one day where they stopped selling all together as of 4pm.” I have had my personal experience with Funko. To get even a chance to stand in line to buy, you either have to be the first one in the hall, or lucky to be passing by when they open up. Over the weekend, they started passing out line tickets. As people first entered the exhibit hall, they would have to get a ticket, get to the line, and then wait in line to eventually buy. This added step seemed to compound issues, as the ticket passers didn’t announce they were passing tickets, and only mentioned something if you got within arms distance. Those that raced by to get to the booth received the news there that they needed a ticket.
Another cause for concern was how exhibitors were still getting into lines by switching out for a regular attendee pass. “I was upset when I saw an exhibitor in the autograph line that I couldn’t even get into,” said one woman. “This has been an ongoing issue for a while on how exhibitors are ‘magically’ producing regular passes,” responded Rogerss. “Unfortunately there’s nothing we can do about it.”
To address the crowds on the sales floor, one man proposed the use of directional lines on the floor. “As you might have noticed, we are such things when large signings are taking place,” said John. The man wished the lines though to happen throughout the convention. Many a person in the room grumbled at this. “I’m pretty sure no one would like anymore rules to complicate things,” added John Rogers.
Reiterated by many was the lack of communication from the different security companies employed by Comic-Con. “One guard had my attendant sit far away from me in Hall H. And other guards were giving me issues over where my attendant was… I need my attendant in eyesight at all times. I don’t know why that guard would have me sit away from him.” Another attendee said that one guard was handing out passes, where there were others just standing around. When he asked why there weren’t helping, they said “oh that’s not our department.”
Now, for the most reoccurring issue: those with disabilities and the services available to them. Many of the attendees with these concerns had actually positive things to say about this year’s services. But the lines for Hall H were still major issue. “On Friday, the general line went in forty-five minutes before the ADA line… I felt like we were forgotten,” said one woman with disabilities. “When we finally got in, many of the red seats marked off for disabled were already taken.”
Another Hall H issue was that the ADA lines were uncovered. “There are many of us that can’t stand in the sun as part of our disability,” said one woman. The same issue was brought up over and over again.
New this year was the addition of wristbands for the ADA line, to help gauge the number of available spot. For the most part, it was met with positive feelings. A few issues did arise though when it came with the actual issuing of said wristbands. “Security would come out and say that there might not be enough bands. Then maybe an hour later they would come out and say there’s six. Another hour later and they’d have four more. Is it that hard to just count the spot and let us know?”
John Rogers responded, “We haven’t come up with a better system to figure out how many spaces we have left till wristbands have been passed out… It’s actually difficult to keep a working number and go off of that.” The woman then asked about making three lines then, or doing a straw pull for wristbands. “We’ll think of that,” said John.
There’s also the issue of those with disabilities and the use of elevators. “The wait for the elevator was extremely long,” said an attendee. “By the time I got to the autograph area, they had caped the line.” For this year’s convention, they’ve had those with ambulatory disabilities use the elevators as opposed to the escalators. “It was a decision we made to be fair to everyone,” replied John. “We were seeing those with ambulatory issues being rushed around by other attendees for the escalators.”
One woman suggested that Comic-Con should have those claiming they have disabilities to show proof, so as to not be accessible to services if they are not. This elicited a quick response from the president. “By California state law, the only ones that can ask for proof of disability is the police.” The woman couldn’t believe that, but many from the crowd agreed with John. “That’s how Disney got in trouble recently at their park,” he added.
The biggest upset was when one woman said, “I was told by Disabled Services that this was the last year my attendant could get a complementary pass. And if they couldn’t get one through the lottery, ‘then they would be out of luck.’ I need my attendant. If he can’t come, I can’t come either. And I’ve been coming for twenty years. I don’t mind if he needs to buy one now, but then please put into place a system that he is guaranteed purchase.”
This seemed to catch John Rogers off guard. “Attendant badges are always complementary, so I don’t know why they would say that to you,” he said. Half a dozen in the line confirmed that they also were told the same thing. John looked at the line and said “We will fix that.”
This panel went on for an hour and a half; one of the longest Talk Backs to happen, with most of the issues dealing with Disabled services. Though it seems the guard issue has lessened this year as compared to others in the past, the concerns with ADA have not. If anything, they seem to be growing. When it comes to something like Comic-Con, it’s important that the whole experience is accessible to all fans that wish to partake. As the convention will remain in San Diego for at least a little while longer, let’s see if they can better address these issues.
By: Heidi MacDonald,
on 7/11/2015
Moderator Victor Lucas and Lego Artist Nathan Sawaya
By Nick Eskey
“Lego” is the toy that let’s allows kids and adult to build from premade manuals, or to create out of their imaginations. Complete miniature sized cities, even worlds, can be made. But what about a something larger than life?
Nathan Sawaya is the artist behind the nationwide touring exhibit “The Art of the Brick.” Instead of tabletop pieces, Nathan has created life sized sculptures that defy everything people think of when they hear “Lego.” One of his best pieces is a scale sized T-Rex skeleton. His exhibition has been touring city after city. Soon we’ll be treated to his newest work, a collaborative effort with Jim Lee and DC Comics.
Yesterday at San Diego Comic-Con, Nathan Sawaya and Jim Lee were present to talk about the upcoming exhibit and more. Nathan first explained how he always had a love for Legos as a kid. When his parents refused to get him a dog, he took his sets apart and made one instead. Later in life, he kept his love of the toy alive as a hobby, building after work on his free time. Eventually his few statues turned into over a hundred, and later a touring exhibit.
Co-Publisher of DC Comics Jim Lee
Jim Lee and DC Comics came into the picture when Nathan wanted to build a particular piece for the exhibit: the Batmobile. However Nathan wasn’t comfortable with designing it. He asked Jim for help, and after the comic artist checked out the sculptures and spoke of bigger things with the Lego artist, they approached DC with an idea. And so, the “DC Comics Meets Lego Arts” exhibit began.
Nathan and his team spent the last year putting together this exhibit, using much of DC’s well loved franchises. He said only one thing is still needed to finish it up. Yup, the very Batmobile it started with. This is where Jim Lee took to the sheets of paper taped to the wall. “We’re going to design it here today with your guy’s help.”
Jim Lee making the Batmobile from a shoe
The first thing he asked of the crowd was what shoe we wanted to use. “One of my tips is that cars all start as shoes.” Jim showed the room by taking suggestions such as slippers to high-heels, and then transforming them into Batmobiles. The panel’s moderator gave the suggestion of a “Dr. Martin” boot, and Jim “kicked” into gear. As Jim Lee sketched, Nathan quipped “I hope he doesn’t decide to change the color to something like chartreuse, cause I bought maybe a million black Lego bricks.”
As one would imagine, the process of building one of these sculptures isn’t always easy. “I have to glue the bricks together. If I make a mistake or if things don’t look right, I have to chisel it apart. And I hate capes by the way.” One of the hardest pieces he had to make for the project he said was the “Superman #1” cover when DC was Detective Comics. The background was in 2D, with Superman and the car he’s holding in 3D. “And of course that cover has a cape,” he said.
Jim Lee and Nathan Sawaya
One of the greatest things though about the project said Nathan and his team was the ability to bring such icons to life in such a new way. “Warner Brothers and DC gave us such leeway so that we can show these characters and give them new life.”
What does it take to be a Lego artist? An engineering degree perhaps? Sometimes it just takes imagination and hard work. “I started life as an attorney,” said Nathan. I would come home and work on my Lego sculptures. I had a website that exhibited my work. When my website broke because it got too many hits, I knew I had to make a life change. So I quit my job, and started making art.” As for his scales, the reason why he does life sized sculptures is because he feels he expresses himself better that way. “The larger the sculpture, I might have to use support beams made of Legos. But because I glue the pieces, that tends to be enough.”
When the DC Lego art exhibit launches this November, it will start in Sydney, Australia. From there it will go on its worldwide city tour. As an extra treat for the audience, Nathan revealed a piece that will be a part of the tour: A two faced Batman and Joker.
Never before has art, Lego, and DC been merged into a cohesive medium. I sure can’t wait till it eventually makes its way here to San Diego.
By: Heidi MacDonald,
on 7/10/2015
By Nick Eskey
Hasbro Entertainment, responsible for many of our favorite childhood toys, treated us press folk to a delicious breakfast accompanied by, of course, toys! Held at Café Sevilla in San Diego’s Gaslamp, the toy breakfast had not only a nice selection of food (yes, be jealous), but some great looking merchandise.
Transformers Generations: Devastator – Combiner Wars
Across the bar, there is a collection of some of Hasbro’s most sought after Comic–Con exclusives: a neon green “Transformers Generations Devastator” Combiner Wars set; the quick switch “Jem” doll; the “Pinkie Pie – My Little Pony” complete with chicken costume and “bucket of chicken” packaging; “G.I. Joe anniversary box set” with dvds, characters “A.V.A.C., Alley Viper Officer, Ralph, and Grunt,” as well as Cobra Scythe and G.I. Joe Chimera machines; “Cybertron High” Transformers box set; “Magic the Gathering Origins Planeswalker Anthology” players box set; “Marvel’s Ant-Man” action figure boxed set with miniature Ant-Man figurines; and a “Storm Trooper – First Order” boxed set with figure and book. All of these toys are limited editions to the convention and are on many a con-goer’s want list (I know someone that would stab for the Jem doll).
Jem and the Holograms – Quick Switch
Set at one station, Hasbro has trays of what look like hacked up dinosaur pieces. They are actually from Hasbro’s popular “Mashems” toy line, where kids and adults can pick and choose their parts and create uniquely fun characters and creatures. For their third line of the series they have “Jurassic,” going with the DNA splicing theme from the books and movies. If you have any of their previous Transformers or “Marvel” Mashems, then it’s possible to create a robot/hero/villain/dinosaur hybrid. Oh the humanity! More additions will be coming this fall for their Marvel line of Mashems.
Jurassic Mashems
Transformers Generations “Combiner Wars” series is a big hit for fans of the original toy from the 80’s. Combiners are Transformers robots that join together to form an even bigger, badass machine. The big appeal with these toys is that each one of the robot pieces still turn into their robot AND vehicle forms, as well as becoming joining pieces for the even bigger combiner. This “Superion” will be a must have.
My Little Pony – Pinkie Pie
And finally in ways of video games, Hasbro and “PlatinumGames” will be coming out with “Transformers Devastation.” The game is a 3rd person perspective, 3D fighter that allows players to control one of some of the franchise’s favorite robots. The art style is almost a deeper form of cell shading, with the fighting taking place in a linear platform with waves of enemies that need to be defeated. Fighting in combos is the main objective, with frequent action-time button cues that lets the character transform into their alternate form for other attacks or strategies. There will various missions to complete such as collecting, timed levels, and protect. Transformers Devastation will be out this Fall for PS3, PS4, XBOX 360, XBOX One, and PC.
Magic the Gathering Origins: Planeswalker
Keep your eyes open for all of these wonderful Hasbro toys and exclusives, either out now or coming soon.
By: Heidi MacDonald,
on 7/10/2015
Nerd HQ
By Nick Eskey
Over the years, nerd culture has grown and evolved. As we have become comfortable and proud of our geekdom, the notion of being a nerd has become accepted by many. Today’s nerd culture has evolved so much that it has a unique style all of its own. High-end comic and cartoon artwork fill our walls and shelves, our closets have designer shirts that feature our favorite games and shows, and now we even share the weights rack with meat heads at the gym: we have become chic.
The New Children’s Museum.
It’s no wonder then that such an event as Nerd HQ exists. Nerd HQ is a party/club experience featuring games, electronics, and popular media. Is there anything better than drinking a mojito while playing video games?
This year, Nerd HQ is located at the “New Children’s Museum” near San Diego’s Gaslamp area. Admission for the 4 days event is free, except for the event happening on Sunday. Registration is not necessary, but if you want to get the full access to the activations there, register online to get reserved a wristband.
Some of the features this year will be a picture booth, live demos of the upcoming “Star Wars Battlefront” game, a Hoth set with a speed racer, a “Lootcrate” table with giveaways, a display of the AMD gaming machine and AMD Radeon peripherals, and of course a fully stocked bar. A lounge area will play host to party goers who want to mingle and relax, and also to special guests who will also be on site to give live interviews and answer questions.
The HQ had a preview on Wednesday night to select guests, and the residents that live in the coinciding residential building. Not all of the displays were fully installed, and unfortunately the Star Wars demos would be available till the next day, but gameplay showed on screens in a continuous loop.
When taking a break from the main event, head down to the New Children’s Museum to check out Nerd HQ.
By: Heidi MacDonald,
on 7/9/2015
By Nick Eskey
DC Collectibles has another exciting line up for this upcoming year. We’ll be seeing much in the way of artist inspired work: from action figures, to statues. For the high-end collector, comic inspired artwork is typically high on the priority list. And what other company produces such detailed pieces from beloved franchises such as DC?
Jim Fletcher, showing off his action figure graveyard jacket.
Interesting bag view.
Kevin Kiniry, playing fortune teller with the DC Tarot Cards.
This year’s DC Collectibles sneak peak is a fun atmosphere, with DC’s Jim Fletcher in full action figure regalia, and DC’s Kevin Kiniry sporting a turban and reading tarot cards. The tarot cards are actually the “Just League Tarot Cards,” designed by Sara Richard, and releasing this November for $24.95.
Bronzed Batman Statue.
DC’s statue franchises have done very well for the company. It’s no surprise that they’ll eventually decide to bronze one of the best loved super heroes. This “Bronzed Batman Statue” captures the awesomeness of the caped crusader in mid flourish. No date yet on this beauty.
Batman.
Superman.
Armored Batman.
Coming in the way of the DC movies, we have three wonderful pieces inspired by the upcoming film “Batman v Superman Dawn of Justice” and sculpted by the artist James Marsano. Each of these resin statues look true to life, as much as a comic book can be of course. Batman and Superman will retail for $150 apiece and are dated for January 2016, whereas the Armored Batman will be released March 2016 and is yet to be priced.
Cheetah.
Killer Frost.
The best selling DC Comics Bombshells will be seeing some additions to their lineup that were designed by Ant Lucia. A short skirted “Cheetah” will be making her debut, as well as this snow bunny version of “Killer Frost.” Each will retail for $124.95, with Cheetah releasing in March and Killer Frost in June respectably.
Kryto, Hoppy, Streaky, and Dex-Starr.
DC Super-Pets will introduce a line of soft plush dolls that feature super powered pets. “Krypto, Hoppy, Dex-Starr, and Streaky” all range from 6 to 9 inches, and were designed by Art Baltazar. Dex-Starr and Streaky will be available this November, where Krypto and Hoppy will be March 2016. No price has been set on them yet.
One of Batman’s signature “toys” is of course the “Batmobile.” This version of his iconic vehicle is from the Batman the Animated Series. A number of figures will be releasing from the same show, but this Batmobile is the best thing by far. It measures at 24 inches long, with independently moving wheels. To add to the cool factor, the headlights, breaks, and engine all light up as well. It releases this October for $99.95.
Man-Bat, Azrael, and Professor Pyg.
The biggest additions this year however will be coming from DC’s action figures. Following with the “Batman Arkham Knight” video game by Rocksteady, DC was showing off their “Man-Bat, Azrael, and Professor Pyg.” These figures were all designed by Rocksteady, and offer over 20 points of articulation. will all be out February 2016 and retail for $25 a piece.
Firestorm, Green Lantern, The Joker
Another line coming to stores will be DC Comics Icons. Designed by Ian Reis, the series will include: “Firestorm” from the “Justice League”, “The Joker” from the “Death In the Family” comic story arc, and “Green Lantern John Stewart” from “Mosaic.” Each one also features over 20 points of articulation, as well as interchangeable accessories. They will be releasing May 2016 for $25 apiece.
Harley Quinn, Super Girl, and Adam Strange.
Superman, Lex Luthor, and Batman.
Exciting things are also coming from their designer line. From Darwyn Cooke, we’ll be seeing his versions of “Batman, Supergirl (complete with Krypto and Streaky), Harlequinn (with mallet accessory), and Adam Strange (with Raygun).” And artist Lee Bernejo will be coming out with his designs of “Batman (with Batarang and interchangeable hands), Green Lantern (with Lantern and interchangeable hands), Superman (with interchangeable hands) and Lex Luthor (with briefcase and interchangeable hands).” Each one will retail for $25, with Cooke’s line coming out June 2016, and Bernejo’s in April 2016.
But the most exciting toy will be “DC Comics Blueline Edition Batman.” Designed by the much sought after Jim Lee, this limited edition figure looks like a black and white sketching. Each package comes with either a signed sketch of Batman, the Joker, or Harley Quinn. Unfortunately, this baby is a Comic-Con exclusive. If you happen to be at the convention, it retails for $300.
I’m super excited over the level of collectibles coming out over the next twelve months. For those who’ll be able to get their hands on them, I’m as equally jealous.
By: Heidi MacDonald,
on 7/1/2015
By: Nick Eskey
Welcome back toy enthusiasts to the last installment of exclusive Funko toys for the 2015 San Diego Comic-Con. Well known for their POP! line of figurines, Funko strives to “cover as many beloved licenses and characters as possible to remind every Comic-Con attendee why they fell in love with these stories in the first place.”
Though there might be more Funko toys announced, these are the last of the exclusives for Comic-Con to be revealed. Remember, there will be no pre-buy option this year. If you see any merchandise that you want, then you need to buy them at the booth while supplies last.
Without further hullabaloo, here’s the last of the reveals:
Pop! Heroes: Batman v Superman – Batman v Superman 2-pack
What ever happened if the Man-of-Steel fought against the Dark Knight? With this Batman v Superman 2-pack, you can play-out this epic fight of fights for yourself. Maybe Batman’s batarang is made of kryptonite?
Pop! TV: Breaking Bad – Blue Crystal Heisenberg
Still reeling over the series end of Breaking Bad? Well this Blue Crystal Heisenberg (funny I know) will keep your withdrawals at bay. Just don’t upset the guy. He looks a little trigger happy.
Funko is excited to announce the debut of Pop! Tees at this year’s San Diego Comic-Con!
Steering away from the toy merchandise, Funko will also be selling the wearable variety. These shirts feature some of their best selling figures. Much like their POP! toys, these tees are displayed in fun colorful boxes.
Pop! Tees: SDCC Freddy Funko
Paying homage to the company’s mascot, this Freddy Funko tee has been made exclusively for San Diego Comic-Con. See Freddy in all of his splendor as he walks around the convention with collectibles, admittance badge, and light saber in hand.
Pop! Tees: Masters of the Universe – Disco Skeletor
All hail Disco Skeletor! This Masters of the Universe villain in his variant colors demands respect as he attempts to once and for all conquer Castle Grayskull.
Pop! Tees: Freddy Funko 8-Bit Pixelated
For you “old-school” types, this Freddy Funko 8-Bit Pixelated tee will be the perfect fit. Whether he’s on his way to rescue a princess, or jump on top of baddys’ heads, he’s sure to be super.
Pop! Tees: Ghostbusters – Burnt Stay Puft
Is there anything worse than burnt marshmallows? A gigantic Burnt Stay Puft marshmallow man, of course! Instead of having to clean this traveler off of every surface, best to stick to this shirt.
Pop! Tees: Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles – Skyline Group
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Skyline Group tee shows the sewer-dwelling crime fighters on top of two buildings.
Pop! Tees: Marvel – Black Widow Shield (Women’s Sizes Only)
And last on our exclusives list, this Black Widow Shield tee flies onto the scene. Unfortunately for her male fans, this shirt is only available in women’s sizes. Though I’m sure this will not stop some fellas.
Thanks for faithfully tuning in everybody for these Funko updates everybody. I can’t wait to see all of you at Comic-Con ’15!
By: Heidi MacDonald,
on 6/27/2015
The San Diego Marriott Marquis (then known as the Intercontinental), under construction c.1983? (It opened in April 1984.)
The Marriott Marquis, c.1989 (The Grand Hyatt opened in 1992.)
As was mentioned in a recent Comic-Con blog post, the Marriott Hall in San Diego has been demolished to make way for a new, larger ballroom facility.
Harbor Drive, on the left of the map, is the street which runs in front of the Convention Center. On the right is the marina and waterfront.
The highlights:
Hotel owners plan to have the $70 Million project completed by next Summer.
By: Catherine Fehre,
on 11/15/2014
Ever since last year’s American Academy of Religion/Society of Biblical Literature meeting in Baltimore, the Religion and Bibles team at Oxford University Press has eagerly awaited San Diego in 2014. As we gear up to travel to the west coast, we asked our staff across divisions and offices: What is on your to-do list while in San Diego?
Tom Perridge, Academic/Trade, UK:
I’m looking forward to returning to San Diego, having previously visited for the 2007 AAR/SBL. Oxford is cold, grey, and autumnal at the moment, so some Californian sunshine will be welcome! It’s always a pleasure to connect with both authors and readers and to cook up ideas for exciting new projects.
Don Kraus, Bibles, US:
As part of my task in publishing Oxford Study Bibles, I am meeting with the editorial boards of various projects in order to keep them moving along. I also hope to see some of the scholars I’ve worked with over the past years, just to catch up and have a chance to hear how they are doing. I look forward to meeting, either again or for the first time, as many scholars as possible who have worked on the second edition of The Jewish Study Bible, our brand-new, fully revised and updated revision of a text that’s already a classic.
Steve Wiggins, Academic/Trade and Bibles, US:
I hope to meet a long-lost cousin (literally!), as well as authors I’ve only met by email. Of course, seeing people I’ve known over the past two decades of attending is always a highlight. It’s all about the people.
Sara McNamara, Journals, US:
Though spending as much time outside exploring San Diego’s parks and beaches is definitely a priority, number one on my to-do list is a breakfast event for journals editors I’ve organized with the AAR and SBL. The breakfast will provide a rare opportunity for religious, biblical, and theological studies journals editors to come together to discuss the unique challenges facing journals and their editors. Emceed by Amir Hussain, the editor of Journal of the American Academy of Religion, the breakfast promises to be both fun and informative.
Gina Chung, Academic/Trade, US:
This year will not only be my first time at AAR, but also my first time in San Diego! I’m really excited to meet our authors in person, and I’m looking forward to getting some sun and 70 degree weather in November as well.
Alyssa Bender, Academic/Trade and Bibles, US:
I can’t wait to meet this year’s new batch of authors at the meeting, and hopefully snap some pictures of them with their books. I’m also excited to explore the city and find some fun restaurants! Hopefully at least one with outdoor seating—have to take advantage of the beautiful San Diego weather!
We hope to see you at Oxford University Press booth 829! We’ll be offering the chance to:
See you there!
The post San Diego, here we come appeared first on OUPblog.
By: shelf-employed,
on 2/14/2013
Through the windows, I watched the boys proceed to a line of green military trucks that waited rumbling alongside the curb. The recruits climbed one by one beneath the vehicles' canvas coverings with the precision of shiny bullets being loaded into a gun. The trucks would cart them off to their training camp, which was no doubt overrun with feverish, shivering flu victims. The boys who didn't fall ill would learn how to kill other young men who were probably arriving at a German train station in their Sunday-best clothing at that very moment. (From Chapter 2, "Aunt Eva and the Spirits")
The sign in front of the eatery claimed the place specialized in "Liberty Steaks," but that was simply paranoid speak for We don't want to call anything a name that sounds remotely German, like "hamburger." We're pro-American. We swear! (from Chapter 13, "Ugly Things")
The businessmen in smart felt hats rode with me, probably on their lunch break. They buried their gauze-covered noses in the San Diego Union, and one of them felt the need to read the October influenza death tolls out loud. "Philadelphia: over eleven thousand dead and counting - just this month. Holy Moses! Boston: for thousand dead." The use of cold statistics to describe the loss of precious lives made me ill. (From Chapter 17, "Keep Your Nightmares to Yourself")The bleak situation is made all the worse by her recent discovery that her dearest Stephen, the only bright spot in her sad existence in San Diego, has enlisted in the Army, not because he desires to fight and kill German soldiers, but to show love for his country and free himself from living under the same roof as his brother, a drug-addled, "spirit photographer,"
So this is war. The declaration changed Coronado and San Diego overnight. The men are all enlisting and everyone is hurrying to make sure we all look like real Americans. One of our neighbors held a bonfire in his backyard and invited everyone over to burn their foreign books. I stood at the back of the crowd and watched people destroy the fairy tales of Ludwig Tieck and the Brothers Grimm and the poetry of Goethe, Eichendorff, Rilke, and Hesse. They burned sheet music carrying the melodies of Bach, Strauss, Beethoven, and Wagner. Even Brahm's "Lullaby."In the Shadow of Blackbirds takes a decidedly darker turn when Mary Shelly learns of Stephen's death in the trenches of Europe. She attends his funeral, but something is very wrong. She can hear him, she can feel his torment. His spirit is not at rest; and amidst the horror of war and the flu pandemic, something else is terribly, terribly wrong. Spirit photography and séances are commonplace as millions across the country yearn to connect with loved ones lost to war or disease; but Shelly is a girl of science, of rationalism - raised in a house of reason and education. But how can science and reason explain the anguished pleas of her deceased love?
...the influenza pandemic of 1918 (this particular strain was known as the "Spanish flu" and the "Spanish Lady") killed at least twenty million people worldwide. (Some estimates run as high as more than one hundred million people killed." Add to that the fifteen million people who were killed as a result of World War I and you can see why the average life expectancy dropped to thrifty-nine years in 1918 - and why people craved seances and spirit photography.
By: Brian Minter,
on 10/15/2012
Normally we at First Book spend our evenings reading award-winning children’s literature, of course, but tonight we’ll be glued to our TV sets for Monday Night Football, watching golf legend Phil Mickelson try to make a $1 million shot at halftime.
If he makes it? 100% of that money will go to First Book, and that means as many as 400,000 brand-new books for kids from low-income families.
The challenge comes from our friends at KPMG, whose commitment to putting books into the hands of kids in need runs deep. It’s all part of KPMG’s Family for Literacy program and their new “Blue for Books” campaign, which has provided over 20,000 new books since March.
At the game, Mickelson will stand in one end zone, aiming for a target in the other end zone, which will have a putting green with three rings around it. If he hits the green, KPMG will donate $50,000 (that’s 20,000 brand-new books), and for each ring they’ll donate more, up to $1 million for the bulls-eye.
In the hands of a lesser golfer this might be a problem, but we’re not worried. Go Phil!
You can help KPMG and Phil get books to kids by donating to First Book. Every $2.50 pays for a brand-new book for a child in need. Or you can show your support through KPMG’s ‘Blue for Books’ campaign by buying Phil’s Blue Hat. For every hat purchased, KPMG will donate three new books. To learn more, visit philsbluehat.com.
By: Neil Gaiman,
on 9/24/2012
Add a Comment
By: Jerry Beck,
on 7/5/2012
Less than a week remains until Comic-Con International begins in San Diego, and whether you’re a fan of animation, comics, fantasy novels, movies, or a little bit of everything, you’re bound to find what you’re looking for. Our own Jerry Beck will be at the convention as both a fan, a professional and a panelist for a number of events (see his post for details), but the animation excitement doesn’t stop there. We’ve pulled together a list of all of the panels, screenings and presentations related to animation so that attending Brew readers can navigate the halls of the gargantuan San Diego Convention Center and find their cartoon fix.
Take note: seating for all of the events listed below are on a first-come, first-served basis. Last year there were seventeen separate rooms hosting panels, with the seating ranging from small rooms with 280 seats to the largest at 6500 seats. As one Comic-Con traveler to another, I’d recommend showing up extra early for the panels you’re most interested in… and above all else, have fun!
11:00-12:00 Nickelodeon: Butt Biting & Magical Mischief!— Meet series creator/executive producer Butch Hartman along with the casts from both The Fairly OddParents and T.U.F.F. Puppy, including Nick talent Jerry Trainor (iCarly) as Dudley Puppy. This year’s panel is totally interactive, with the fans interviewing the cast directly, plus a sneak peek from the Nickelodeon live-action movie A Fairly Odd Christmas, along with a chance to win prizes. On hand: Jerry Trainor (voice of Dudley), Tara Strong (voice of Timmy and Poof), Grey DeLisle (voice of Kitty and Vicky), Daran Norris (voice of Chief, Cosmo and Dad), Matt Taylor (voice of Snaptrap), Susanne Blakeslee (voice of Wanda and Mom), and Carlos Alazraqui (voice of Crocker). Moderated by Dana Cluverius, executive in charge for Nickelodeon. Room 7AB
11:00-12:00 Bongo Comics/United Plankton Sneak Peek— Bongo Comics and United Plankton Pictures offer a tantalizing preview of upcoming projects featuring The Simpsons, Futurama, SpongeBob SquarePants, and a few other surprises. Bongo’s creative director Nathan Kane, managing editor Terry Delegeane, and art director Jason Ho are joined by intern/fan favorite Louis Lane and Simpsons/Futurama-ologist Bill Morrison for a fun and informative free-for-all. Find out what’s in the future for Futurama Comics, what to surmise about Simpsons Comics, and what’s next for Bongo in the print world and beyond. Also, Chris Duffy, managing editor of United Plankton Pictures, will dish up some Krabby Patty-infused morsels of what’s to come in SpongeBob Comics. Room 9
11:00-12:00 Filmation and Lou Scheimer: Celebrating a Generation of Animation and TV Heroes— One of the most successful and groundbreaking television animation studios was Filmation, whose productions shaped Saturday mornings and daytime syndication from the 1960s to the 1980s. From Superman, Batman, and Aquaman to The Archies, from Fat Albert and the Groovie Goolies to the live-action Shazam! and Isis series, up to the groundbreaking
Add a Comment
By: Maryann Yin,
on 8/2/2011
Writers Veronica Roth, Marie Lu and Erin Morgenstern all landed movie deals for their debut novels.
Roth released Divergent in May; Morgenstern’s book The Night Circus is due out in September and Lu’s title Legend will hit bookstores in late November. Lu sold her book’s movie rights to CBS Films. Summit Entertainment snatched up the rights to Roth and Morgenstern’s novels.
According to Variety, Harry Potter film producer David Heyman is interested in The Night Circus film. Deadline reported that Twilight film producers Marty Bowen and Wyck Godfrey are looking at Legend. All three authors made an appearance at this year’s San Diego Comic-Con.
New Career Opportunities Daily: The best jobs in media.
Add a Comment.jpeg?picon=3655)
By: Read Now Sleep Later,
on 1/9/2011
Well, it's day 2 for most people--day 1 for me. I don't even want to tell you what ARCs I got my hands on... OK, I do, but really I don't want to sound like I'm bragging.
I'm flabbergasted. And Aly's back seat is 1/2 full of my stuff.
Then again, I was too busy to take photos, so you'll have to use your imagination.
Ok. Bragging commences.
MY FIRST ALA
While Penwallace hied off to the Fulcrum booth to sign her books, Alybee and I ran around the YA/Kids booths about 4 times... I really had to pace myself; there was so much good stuff, and I wanted to make sure I was only picking up books that I am going to want to read and review--not random items I'm not even interested in.
Also, was mildly interested in not breaking my back.
BLOGSPOTTING
We ran off to lunch at Masala (yum) and found MrSchuReads and 100ScopeNotes next door. They rock. Check out their blogs, especially
AUTHORS SIGHTED
We found Alexandra Bracken working the Random House YA area, and Kathryn Otoshi and her fabulous picture books at PGW.
Mary Pearson also spotted Aly and swooped in for a hug. :) Me, I hugged RobinEllen in front of the Flux booth (where we also met Sarah Jamila Stevenson--author of The Latte Rebellion, who signed my copy :)
At Harper Perennial, we met Mitali Perkins and Melissa Wiley were signing a couple of the Betsy-Tacy books (for which they had written forewords)... LOVE Maud Hart Lovelace!
A little while later we saw Lisa McMann over by the Simon & Schuster booth. We knew we were going to see her in a month or so--but we stopped to say hi anyway. She's just too adorable to pass by without a big hug!
Aly and I took another turn about the floor with Sarah and Suzanne from Writing on the Sidewalk.
I got some to-die for ARCs including (but not limited to)
2 Comments on ALA Midwinter Meeting 2011 - San Diego - Day 1, last added: 1/12/2011
As many of you know, Jake and I moved to Phoenix from Charleston, SC. Charleston is a peninsula on the east coast. Therefore, it is surrounded by water. Sometimes, when I’m driving in downtown PHX, memories of the Charleston geography still haunt me, as in “Be careful. If you turn down the wrong street, you’ll go right into the ocean.” I won’t, of course; we’re in the middle of a desert. Still, after living in Charleston for two years, I grew accustomed to having water around.
Since moving to the Valley of the Sun, my eyes have become thirsty for water. When I drive over aqueducts, I like looking down and pretending they’re raging rivers. When I’m near a swimming pool, I cross my eyes and pretend the water lapping against the ladder is seawater—ocean waves and undertow, threatening to pull me out to sea. Pathetic, I know, but after living five minutes from the ocean for two years, this whole desert thing is taking some getting used to.
Last weekend, Jake took me to San Diego. I’d never been to California, and I’d never seen the Pacific Ocean. On the drive west, I was insane. I oo-ed and aww-ed at the crisp, yellow sand dunes. I took pictures of the giant California wind farms. And the closer we got to the coast, the more I swore I could smell the salt water—because that was how it was in South Carolina. You could smell the ocean before you saw it.
We dropped our stuff off at Jake’s friend’s house in the San Diego hills and changed into our bathing suits. We drove through downtown San Diego and headed straight for La Jolla Beach. We parked in a garage, and when we finally stepped out into the fresh air, I was dismayed to find that:
1) It was freezing outside.
2) It was foggy.
3) It smelled like rotting bird poop.
In regards to each item: yes, it really was freezing. I mean, it was probably sixty degrees. Growing up in Ohio, sixty degrees was hot. Moving to Charleston, sixty degrees meant winter. Now living in Phoenix, the weatherman has never seen the numbers six and zero anywhere near each other. It was also foggy, but only over the ocean. Inland, the sun was shining; along the coast, an apocalyptic wall of gray held us captive. And finally, the bird poop: La Jolla Beach is a bird hangout. They sit there, squawk, and make waste, which eventually leads to rotten waste, which led to the appalling odor.
Despite all this, I was not deterred. I had come to swim in the ocean I so adored and so missed; I would swim in the ocean.
After climbing down a couple cliff edges, Jake and I finally found a sandy beach. The water, even beneath the fog, was glorious—clear and deep blue. Far away from the bird poop, I could finally smell blessed salt water. There were a couple people on the beach, standing around and looking out at the water. There were a couple kids actually swimming, because we all know we’re more resilient when we’re young. I mean, shoot, when I was a kid, you could have told me the freezing cold Ohio pool water was poisonous, and I still would have jumped in. Evidently, nothing has changed, because I stripped down to my suit and ran into the Pacific Ocean.
I can't feel my toes. But I'm still smiling.
By: Sondra Santos LaBrie,
on 8/15/2009
Every Friday, San Diegans, tourists, and guests of the Sofia Hotel head downstairs, or to the corner of 1st & Broadway, to participate in a ritual unlike any other.
My date ordered the Roasted Beer Can Chicken, which I sampled and which I was very impressed with. It sat upon porcini and baby leeks, gravy and mashed potatoes. It was delicious. I ordered the Lamb Bolognese with hand-cut pappardelle pasta and shaved grana padano cheese. It too was amazing, although the long noodles (and lots of them) was a little too much for me to deal with. I ate quite a bit but when she took my plate away it looked as though I had barely touched my food.
By: Wendy Orr,
on 6/7/2009
We took the train from Los Angeles to San Diego - a scenic ride, much of it along the beach - and met Allyn Johnston, the publisher of the new Beach Lane imprint for Simon & Schuster. It's always interesting to meet someone you've corresponded with for several years; we had a wonderful afternoon going over the manuscript for The Princess and the Panther, playing with a couple of problem lines, phoning Lauren Stringer the illustrator and discussing some of the philosophy of picture books in general. eg:
How scary should picture books for small children be? My own feeling is that children are innately programmed to feel fear - being afraid is a very useful survival tool - and if we deny them any fear in the stories we read and tell them, we deny them the tools they need to deal with fear. That's why traditional tales are so often terrifying! And what about Maurice Sendak's work: would Where the Wild Things Are be published today?
It's a fine line. I think children need to feel tested, to experience fear and then be brought back to safety, which gives them the tools they need to learn to do the same thing in their own lives. But, as writers, illustrators, publishers, we don't want them to be so afraid that the adult reader says, "I'm not reading you that before bedtime!"
And now, I have to get the words right in those few tricky lines: the balance of rhythm, sounds and meaning.
I missed any part where they said they added more rooms. Because that’s the only kind of positive effect on Comic Con that matters.